Je ferai de mon mieux
The English phrase 'I will try my best' is translated into French as Je ferai de mon mieux.
This phrase is used to make a promise that you will put in as much effort as possible to achieve a specific goal.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to 'I will do of my best' because it utilizes the French verb faire (to do/make) instead of the verb for 'to try'.
Which one should you use?
While English speakers use the verb 'to try', the standard idiomatic expression in French uses the verb faire. Another common way to express this sentiment is Je ferai tout mon possible, which translates to 'I will do everything possible'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form Je ferai de mon mieux uses the verb ferai, which is the future tense of faire. This tense is used here to indicate a promise or an intention for a future action.
Did you know?
- The word mon (my) likely evolved from Latin but was influenced by the Gaulish word mon, the language spoken by the Celts in ancient France.
- If you were to use the verb essayer instead of faire in this context, you might sound like you are merely testing a theory rather than promising personal effort.
- If a French speaker says Je vais essayer, they are literally saying 'I am going to try'. However, this is often seen as less of a commitment than Je ferai de mon mieux.
Examples in context
- Je ferai de mon mieux pour réussir dans ce projet.I will do my best to succeed in this project.
- Ne t'inquiète pas, je vais essayer du mieux que je peux pour t'aider.Don't worry, I will try my best to help you.
- Je ferai de mon mieux pour contribuer au succès de l'entreprise.I will do my best to contribute to the success of the company.
- Je vais faire de mon mieux pour obtenir de bonnes notes.I will do my best to get good grades.
- Je ferai de mon mieux pour réussir l'examen.I will try my best to pass the exam.
- Ne t'inquiète pas, je ferai de mon mieux.Don't worry, I will try my best.
- Je ferai de mon mieux pour finir ce projet.I will try my best to finish this project.
Example conversation
Léa and Lucas are discussing a difficult task at work.
- LéaPeux-tu terminer ce rapport avant demain, Lucas ?Can you finish this report before tomorrow, Lucas?
- LucasC'est difficile, mais je ferai de mon mieux.It's difficult, but I will try my best.
- LéaMerci, je compte sur toi.Thanks, I'm counting on you.
- LucasJe te le promets, je ferai de mon mieux.I promise you, I will try my best.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries de, je, mieux, mon, CC BY-SA 4.0.
